Butterworth 'Pinguicula primuliflora 'Pink'

Pinguicula primuliflora ‘Pink’ is a carnivorous plant from the butterwort plant family (Lentibulariaceae). This cultivated plant grows nowhere in the wild. The species produces a rosette of egg shaped to oval, bright green leaves. The upper side of the leaves is covered with many glands producing a sticky substance where insects could be caught with. The insects are digested on top of the leaves, the nutrients available are used by the plant. Once per year, mostly in spring, one to several flower stalks are produced, carrying a single purple flower with a bright yellow heart. Unlike other species within this genus, the flowers of this plant have multiple rows of tepals. Flowers are somewhat similar to the flower of a primrose, hence the name. Propagation is done by repotting the smaller rosettes forming near the base of the mature plant, or seeds.

For optimal growth of Pinguicula primuliflora ‘Pink’, provide temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius in summer. Higher temperatures are endured. In winter this plant could handle colder temperatures. Ensure a humidity of 70% or above with this species. It is mostly grown in bright rooms indoors, cool greenhouses or specialized terraria. Pinguicula primuliflora ‘Pink’ grows best with bright indirect light. Direct sunlight could scorch the leaves. Pot this plant in mineral rich sandy soil that is able to maintain moisture. Make sure that this soil contains very little nutrients, optionally some calcareous sand could be added. This plant needs constant moisture, it is possible to place the pot in a tray of water at all times. Fertilizer is rarely applied; it is possible to ‘feed’ the leaves with small insects occasionally.